Police in the Westfjords have announced they will not object to drivers fitting studded tyres before the statutory end-of-season deadline of 31 October, citing the risk of slippery conditions on mountain passes as winter approaches. The statement was published on 9 October 2026. Under Icelandic law, studded tyres and snow chains are generally prohibited between 15 April and 31 October unless road conditions make their use necessary.
Why this matters for photographers
Many of the Westfjords’ most rewarding photography locations — including mountain-pass roads leading to fjords and waterfalls — become icy well before November. Photographers hired on a standard rental agreement should check whether studded or winter tyres are available and permitted under their contract, as tyre choice directly affects safe access to these routes in October. Conditions on Westfjords passes can change rapidly, and reduced traction significantly increases risk on narrow, unfenced roads.
What photographers should do
- Contact your car rental company before departure to confirm whether studded or winter tyres are fitted, available on request, and permitted under your rental agreement for October travel in the Westfjords.
- Check road conditions before each drive using the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) website and app, which provides live surface and closure information for Westfjords routes.
- Reduce speed on mountain passes regardless of tyre type — Westfjords police specifically note that speed limits reflect optimal conditions, not icy or wet surfaces.
For full guidance, see our Photographing the Westfjords: Iceland’s Forgotten Region.
Source: RÚV English — https://www.ruv.is/english/2026-10-09-westfjords-police-will-not-object-to-early-studded-tyre-use-489346/